Fostering Solidarity and Strength through Dedicated Humanitarian Efforts

Since its founding in 1973, the Shaw Foundation has established itself as a symbol of humanitarian excellence across Chinese communities worldwide.

Timely Intervention, Effective Strategy, and Holistic Recovery

The Foundation has earned a strong reputation for agility in crisis response through decades of decisive and swift action following natural disasters. From mainland China to Taiwan and Thailand, the Foundation has regularly been among the first to step forward with help. One instance was during the devastating 2021 floods in Henan when the Foundation quickly committed to support relief efforts. Similarly, after the 2023 Gansu and Qinghai earthquake — a 6.2-magnitude event in northwest China — the Foundation immediately pledged a significant sum for emergency aid and reconstruction. More than mere philanthropic gestures, these actions embody a philosophy that considers disaster response as both a moral imperative and a civic duty.

Recognising that help is also needed after the initial shock, the Foundation consistently supports reconstruction efforts that address both the physical and psychological needs of affected communities. After the Sichuan earthquake in 2008, for example, the Foundation directed resources toward rebuilding educational infrastructure and supporting psychosocial programmes for children, helping affected communities recover more fully. This holistic approach reflects a high regard for both human dignity and potential.

Championing Causes for the Red Cross

In addition to providing financial support, Sir Run Run also served as President of the Hong Kong Red Cross for 26 years, starting in 1972. He mobilised celebrities and public figures to promote voluntary blood donation, helping to dispel cultural taboos surrounding the practice in traditional Chinese society. In 1980, he led the first delegation to visit the Red Cross Society of China, fostering cross-border collaboration in humanitarian work. In 2012, the Foundation provided substantial funding to support the construction of the Red Cross’s new headquarters.

More recently, the Foundation has supported the Hainan Red Cross in its efforts to prevent and treat thalassaemia, aiming to assist high-risk regions such as Hainan and Guangxi in addressing this hereditary blood disorder.

Leading the Way in Health Crisis Response

During the initial phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Foundation responded promptly with a dual approach: donating essential supplies to vulnerable and at-risk groups, and also contributing to the Hong Kong Hospital Authority by providing significant support to the Department of Microbiology at the University of Hong Kong, to advance research into emerging infectious diseases and coronaviruses. This reflects the Foundation’s philosophy to provide both immediate and follow-up assistance.

Empowering Communities through Targeted Support

Highlighting the Foundation’s compassion, in 2025 the Foundation introduced the “Emergency Relief Fund” to support grassroots families facing workplace injuries, accidents, or natural disasters. By making aid easily accessible, this gave hope to families facing emergencies alone.

Enduring Impact rooted in Responsibility and Community

Over the years, the Shaw Foundation has evolved beyond the traditional role of emergency aid provider by also fostering civic responsibility and social solidarity. The Foundation has also inspired others to mobilise promptly in times of crisis and prop up the affected communities as they rebuild and regain self-sufficiency.